NHS could stop diagnosing child autism in Merton

Report in wimbledon guardian, have copied the link to full report below. NAS is aware and ask the Merton NAS group to share.

Children may no longer be able to get NHS referrals for assessment and diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in Merton.

South West London St George's Mental Health Trust discussed plans to no longer accept referrals for assessment and diagnosis of ASD in children at a board meeting this month. Children would only be referred if they have an additional mental health condition that requires treatment, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or depression.

A spokesman for the Trust told Wimbledon Guardian no decision has yet been made, but it was proposed children with suspected autism should be managed by schools and other services, and do not require formal diagnosis of autism.

To see full report seehttp://www.wimbledonguardian.co.uk/news/15306391.NHS_could_stop_diagnosing_child_autism_in_Merton/